The 2025 Scaffold Builders Championship has come to an exciting close at the Las Vegas Convention Center, with Scaffold Resource, Inc. taking home the top prize in a thrilling display of scaffolding excellence.The competition, hosted by the Scaffold & Access Industry Association (SAIA) and supported by AT-PAC during the World of Concrete (WOC) trade show, showcased the unmatched skill, teamwork, and precision of scaffolding professionals from across the industry.After a full day of intense competition, Scaffold Resource emerged victorious, impressing the judges with their speed, accuracy, and adherence to safety protocols. Leading Edge Scaffold claimed a well-deserved second place, while Bechtel Equipment Operations, Inc. rounded out the podium in third.“It’s an incredible feeling to win,” said the team captain from Scaffold Resource. “This competition is about showcasing the best of the scaffolding trade, and we’re honoured to be a part of it. Every team here brought their A-game, and we’re proud to represent the industry at its highest level.”
A Celebration of Talent
The competition featured 18 elite teams from around the U.S., including Apex Access Systems and even UK-based JMAC Scaffolding Limited and Revolution Industrial. All of them demonstrated their expertise in building and dismantling complex scaffolding structures under strict time constraints. Judged by a panel of industry experts, teams were evaluated on precision, safety, teamwork, and overall efficiency.“This wasn’t just about speed—it was about doing it right,” said one of the judges. “The level of professionalism and skill we saw today was remarkable.”
An Industry Highlight
Held during the prestigious World of Concrete trade show, the championship provided a global platform for scaffolding professionals to shine. With thousands of construction and masonry professionals attending, the competition brought much-needed attention to the critical role scaffolders play in the global construction industry.“It was amazing to see scaffolders getting the recognition they deserve,” said one attendee. “The level of skill and coordination involved in what they do is incredible. Watching this live really highlights how essential they are to construction projects worldwide.”
More Than Just a Competition
Beyond the contest, the event celebrated scaffolding as a trade. SAIA and AT-PAC will also host educational presentations and product demonstrations throughout the week, giving attendees a glimpse into the latest innovations and safety practices shaping the industry.“Every team here is a winner,” said SAIA President Mike Bredl. “This competition is about elevating the scaffolding profession and showcasing the talent that makes construction safer and more efficient. We’re incredibly proud of everyone who participated.”
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 Scaffold Builders Championship wraps up, SAIA is already gearing up for next year’s event, aiming to make the competition even better with a live stream for viewers worldwide. For now, Scaffold Resource has the title and bragging rights, but the camaraderie and celebration of skill have left a lasting impression on everyone involved.For more information about the competition and future SAIA events, visit their website or follow them on social media.
The construction sector is grappling with one of the largest worker shortages in the UK, with 16% of businesses reporting a lack of skilled labour, according to new research by money.co.uk.This ranks construction second only to the accommodation and food service industry, where nearly a quarter of businesses face staffing challenges.The findings, based on ONS data, reveal that construction is part of a broader national trend of labour shortages, which are affecting industries crucial to the UK economy.The research highlights a growing crisis for construction firms, long burdened by difficulties in attracting and retaining skilled workers.
Challenges of an Ageing Workforce and Limited Diversity
An ageing workforce and insufficient recruitment of younger talent are significant factors contributing to the construction shortage. The industry also continues to struggle with diversity, remaining predominantly male-dominated. This lack of representation creates additional barriers to drawing in new talent from broader demographics, compounding the recruitment crisis.
Expert Advice on Addressing the Skills Gap
Kyle Eaton, an expert in business bank accounts at money.co.uk, emphasises the importance of proactive measures to address the skills gap. He outlines several strategies to help construction firms attract and retain skilled workers:
Build a Strong Employer Brand – Companies can attract top talent by cultivating a reputation as an excellent workplace. Showcasing company culture, values, and development opportunities via social media, job fairs, and industry events is crucial.
Develop Apprenticeship and Internship Programs – Partnering with educational institutions to create hands-on learning opportunities can establish a steady pipeline of skilled workers and nurture talent early.
Enhance Onboarding Processes – Structured onboarding programs that include training in policies, culture, and job-specific skills can help new employees integrate more effectively. Providing mentors can also support new hires in their roles.
Offer Competitive Benefits and Career Development – Competitive salaries, benefits, and clear career progression paths are essential to retaining workers. Employees are likelier to stay with companies that invest in their growth and provide advancement opportunities.
Embrace Diversity and Inclusion – A diverse workforce brings varied perspectives, fostering innovation and adaptability. Policies promoting inclusivity can attract more candidates and help fill skill gaps.
Broader Implications for the UK Economy
The construction industry’s worker shortage highlights the broader challenges facing the UK labour market. As one of the key sectors driving infrastructure development and economic growth, addressing these gaps is essential for the nation’s future. Experts stress that investing in training, diversity, and workplace culture is critical to ensuring long-term sustainability and competitiveness.With an urgent need to bridge the skills gap, the construction industry must adopt innovative solutions to secure its workforce and continue building the UK’s future.
Industry leaders in Hong Kong have dismissed suggestions that switching to steel scaffolding would prevent construction accidents, warning that abandoning the city’s traditional bamboo scaffolding could jeopardise thousands of jobs.The debate was reignited after the collapse of bamboo scaffolding at a construction site in Kai Tak on Monday, which left 11 workers injured, four critically. The incident has prompted industrial accident advocacy groups to call for stricter regulations, including a transition to steel scaffolding.Today, Ho Ping-tak, chairman of the Hong Kong and Kowloon Bamboo Scaffolding Workers Union, argued that the primary cause of such incidents was not the material but insufficient safety oversight.“Most bamboo scaffolding accidents result from inappropriate arrangements during construction or risky alterations after the structure is built,” Ho explained. “These are issues with safety protocols on construction sites, not structural flaws in bamboo scaffolding.”Ho emphasised that bamboo structures are designed according to engineers’ specifications and undergo safety checks before use. The real problem, he suggested, lies in unauthorised modifications during later stages of construction, often made to save time or effort.
Bamboo Versus Steel
Advocates for bamboo scaffolding highlighted its advantages over steel, including lower costs, lighter weight, and easier assembly and dismantling. Around 80% of scaffolding in Hong Kong uses bamboo, supporting a workforce of 4,000 licensed scaffolders.Timmy So Tin-ming, chief external affairs officer for the Bamboo Scaffolding Association, argued that steel scaffolding is not inherently safer. “If someone deliberately removes or modifies structural components, it doesn’t matter whether the material is bamboo or steel,” So said. “Both systems require tools and expertise to alter.”Despite these assurances, the Association for the Rights of Industrial Accident Victims has raised concerns about the variability in bamboo quality, which they say complicates accurate structural calculations and increases risks.The group has called for authorities to phase out bamboo scaffolding in favour of steel alternatives.
Regulatory Changes and Safety Inspections
The Labour Department updated its Code of Practice for Bamboo Scaffolding Safety in October, strengthening technical requirements and banning unauthorised alterations.Following the Kai Tak incident, Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han pledged to gather feedback from industry stakeholders and conduct citywide inspections of scaffolding.Industry leaders, including those from the Hong Kong Scaffolding SME Association, have called for improved risk assessments at every stage of scaffolding construction to bolster safety.While the debate continues, bamboo scaffolders remain firm in defending their craft. “Bamboo has been part of Hong Kong’s construction culture for over a century,” said Ho. “What we need is better enforcement of existing safety standards, not the abandonment of this tradition.”
The cost of building projects is forecast to rise by 17% over the next five years, with tender prices expected to increase by 19% in the same period, according to the latest figures from the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS).The outlook, released by BCIS, predicts a return to growth in construction output after a period of contraction since mid-2023. New work output is anticipated to grow by 21% by the end of the forecast period.
Labour Costs Drive Inflation
Labour costs are highlighted as the primary driver of input cost inflation. Annual growth in the BCIS Labour Cost Index slowed to 5.3% in the final quarter of 2024, but significant increases loom. Higher employer National Insurance contributions and a rise in the National Living Wage are projected to push costs up by 2.5% in April 2025 compared to March. Overall, labour costs are expected to climb by 19% by the end of 2029.Dr David Crosthwaite, Chief Economist at BCIS, explained: “The construction industry is grappling with a tightening labour supply, long-term workforce losses, and shortages of skilled workers. With demand expected to pick up this year, the risks to our forecasts are firmly on the upside.”
Materials Costs Stabilise but Remain a Concern
Materials cost inflation, which peaked in 2022, has been moderating. Annual growth in the BCIS Materials Cost Index turned negative from late 2023 to mid-2024 but is forecast to grow by 15% over the next five years.The BCIS All-in Tender Price Index, which measures the cost of accepted tenders, grew by 2.3% in the final quarter of 2024. Dr Crosthwaite noted that while tender prices are expected to grow more slowly than input costs in 2025, the trend will reverse from 2026.
Return to Growth on the Horizon
Despite a 4.7% contraction in new work output projected for 2024, growth is expected to return from 2025. The recovery will likely be driven by increased housing and infrastructure spending. However, the ambitious government target of building 370,000 homes annually remains out of reach.Dr Crosthwaite warned of challenges ahead: “Public finances and a sluggish economy pose significant risks to growth in industrial and commercial sectors. Delays to the second phase of the government’s Spending Review create further uncertainty, as many funding and viability decisions rely on clear long-term strategies.”
Mixed Sentiment in the Industry
The S&P Global UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index reached a 29-month high in September, reflecting positive sentiment across the sector. However, optimism has since waned following the Autumn Budget, with concerns about the broader economic environment tempering expectations.As the construction industry navigates these challenges, the BCIS report underscores the need for resilience and strategic planning to manage costs and secure growth in the years ahead.
PERI UK has reached a significant milestone by qualifying for Constructionline Gold membership, reinforcing its dedication to improving construction projects’ efficiency, safety, and speed.Constructionline, a trusted independent body, evaluates supply chain members to ensure they meet the required capabilities for effective project delivery. By achieving this accreditation, PERI joins a select group of suppliers recognised for reducing risks and promoting transparency in procurement processes.This achievement comes at a crucial moment as the Procurement Act 2023 introduces changes to the governance of public procurement across most of the UK.The accreditation positions PERI as a pre-qualified supplier, aligning with the Common Assessment Standard and ensuring compliance with the evolving procurement landscape.
A Streamlined Approach to Procurement
PERI, a global leader in the temporary works sector, emphasised that accreditation simplifies evaluating its competencies and capabilities. With all necessary qualifications now digitally accessible via the Constructionline portal, stakeholders can save valuable time while ensuring the highest quality and safety standards.The Gold membership is also expected to strengthen PERI’s collaboration with tier 1 contractors, fostering alignment and trust throughout the project lifecycle. The company believes this recognition enhances its ability to meet the needs of modern infrastructure projects, particularly as procurement practices evolve under the new legislative framework.
A Commitment to Excellence
Matt McCarthy, Infrastructure Sales Manager at PERI UK, shared his thoughts on the achievement:“As the leading supplier of formwork in the temporary works sector, we have a responsibility to meet the latest standards and provide tier 1 contractors with the confidence they need when procuring for infrastructure projects. The way tier 1 contractors approach the procurement of temporary works equipment has evolved significantly over the years. Being a Constructionline Gold member places us in a strong position as the new Procurement Act takes effect, enabling us to showcase our capabilities more efficiently than ever before.”McCarthy highlighted that the Gold accreditation represents the highest level of recognition within Constructionline’s framework. It demonstrates PERI’s commitment to adhering to industry standards, ensuring safety, and delivering quality on-site—critical factors in reducing risks and driving project success.
The UK construction industry’s recovery slowed in December, with a new report highlighting moderated growth in output and new orders. The S&P Global UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell to 53.3 in December, down from 55.2 in November. Although the index remains above the 50.0 no-change mark, indicating expansion, December’s reading marks the slowest pace of growth since June 2024.
Sector Performance: Mixed Results
Commercial construction led the sector with the highest growth, scoring 55.0 on the index, followed by civil engineering at 52.9. However, both segments showed weaker performance compared to the previous month. Residential construction lagged behind, registering a sharp contraction with a reading of 47.6, marking the fastest decline in house-building activity since June 2024. Elevated borrowing costs, subdued demand, and fragile consumer confidence were cited as the main challenges for the housing market.
New Orders and Input Costs
New orders expanded at the slowest rate in six months, reflecting uneven demand. While the commercial building sector benefited from improved tender opportunities, the residential market struggled due to cutbacks and a lack of new projects to replace completed infrastructure works. This cautious demand environment prompted companies to scale back input purchases for the first time in eight months, driven partly by tighter inventory management.The sector also faced rising costs, with subcontractor rates increasing at the fastest pace in 20 months. Despite reduced demand, subcontractor availability improved only marginally. High input costs, including rising salaries, continued to constrain job creation, with hiring levels remaining below pre-pandemic averages.
Optimism and Challenges Ahead
Looking forward, 48% of construction firms expect output to rise in 2025, while 15% anticipate a decline. Confidence has rebounded since November but remains weaker than earlier in 2024. Many firms remain cautious about the UK’s economic outlook and the potential impact of constrained capital spending.Tim Moore, Economics Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, noted the uneven growth across sectors. “Commercial building maintained its position as the fastest-growing area of construction activity, followed by civil engineering. However, residential work decreased for the third month running, reflecting headwinds from elevated borrowing costs and fragile consumer confidence.”Brendan Sharkey, a construction specialist at MHA, added: “While the commercial sector remains strong and infrastructure benefits from government investment, housing continues to face challenges. High interest rates and rising labour costs will be ongoing issues. However, increased inward investment could offer relief.”Sharkey predicts a slow but steady recovery in 2025, with infrastructure projects and commercial development driving growth. “Although growth will be modest, the fundamentals for the sector are solid, and there is an air of quiet optimism,” he said.
HS2: A Key Driver
One bright spot is the continued progress of the HS2 project, which remains a major driver of UK construction activity. December saw preparations completed for a bridge over the M42 motorway near Birmingham Business Park, marking a significant milestone for the high-speed rail line.While the construction industry demonstrates resilience amid challenges, it faces a mixed outlook for 2025. The balance between government infrastructure investments and headwinds from high interest rates and subdued residential demand will be critical in shaping the sector’s trajectory.
Star Scaffolding has cemented its reputation as a leader in workforce development after earning accolades at the Ladder for the Black Country Apprenticeship Awards 2024, held at West Bromwich Albion’s The Hawthorns Stadium in November.The company was crowned Medium Employer of the Year for its collaboration with the Construction College Midlands, part of Walsall College.The recognition didn’t stop there. At the same event,Apprentice Harrison Mapley was celebrated as the Construction and Property Apprentice of the Year. Harrison, who joined Star Scaffolding in late 2021 and completed his apprenticeship last year, was also a runner-up for Apprentice of the Year at the prestigious National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) ScaffEx24 Scaffolding Excellence Awards.Harrison expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided by Star Scaffolding, saying:“I really enjoyed doing an apprenticeship with Star. It taught me all the essential skills I need to work in the scaffolding industry while earning, and I now want to undertake more training to help me progress further. The support and guidance from my mentors at Star Scaffolding have been instrumental in my development. This recognition motivates me to continue striving for excellence in my career, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds.”
Investing in People
Star Scaffolding’s commitment to addressing the industry’s skills gap is evident in its comprehensive training programs. The company invests over £20,000 annually in staff development, ensuring apprentices gain valuable skills, knowledge, and behaviours that drive personal and professional growth.Emma Chard, Skills and Training Manager at Star Scaffolding highlighted the importance of their apprenticeship program:“We nurture our young people by providing a solid support network that encourages all apprentices to learn valuable skills, knowledge and behaviours. Our Apprenticeship programme is dependent on teamwork, and to be recognised for our training is testament to the dedication of all employees. Educating our team is crucial to our success.”
Supporting Career Growth and Diversity
Star Scaffolding places a strong emphasis on retaining apprentices, with many staying with the company for over a decade after completing their training.The business also focuses on creating accessible opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including neurodivergent individuals and ex-offenders.The company celebrates excellence within its workforce through the annual Leon Bell Awards, honouring standout performers with £200 in vouchers. This year’s winners included:
Luke Bayliss – Scaffolder of the Year
Conna Denholm – Trainee Scaffolder of the Year
Arron Colmain – Apprentice of the Year
A Bright Future
Star Scaffolding’s achievements highlight its role as a champion for apprenticeships and workforce development. By fostering a culture of growth and inclusivity, the company continues to set a high standard for the scaffolding industry.
For over 50 years, the CITB National Construction College (NCC) has partnered with employers across the UK to deliver successful apprenticeship programmes across various construction trades.
With over 1,000 apprentices trained last year and over 11,000 commercial learners, NCC is proud to be one of the country’s largest and most prestigious construction colleges.
Our immersive, industry-led programmes are designed to deliver exceptional outcomes, helping apprentices put their skills into practice from day one. With wraparound support for both learners and employers, we’re committed to making the apprenticeship journey straightforward and rewarding for all involved.
Why Choose NCC for Scaffolding Apprenticeships?
At NCC, we understand the value of apprenticeships as the foundation of the construction industry. Our scaffolding apprenticeships are tailored to meet the needs of both apprentices and employers, offering:
Expert Training: Programmes designed and delivered by industry professionals.
Flexible Start Dates: Choose from a variety of dates to suit your business needs.
Comprehensive Support: Guidance on funding, paperwork, and workplace mentoring to ensure success.
Immersive Learning: Training blocks that equip apprentices with essential skills efficiently.
Ongoing Workplace Support: Instructors and workplace coaches help apprentices apply new skills and thrive in their roles.
With a qualification achievement rate of 80% in 2023–24, you can trust NCC to provide high-quality training that delivers results.
Scaffolding Apprenticeship Details
Location: All sites
Duration:
England: 12 weeks of training over 18 months
Scotland: 9 weeks of training over 18–24 months
Apprentices will gain hands-on experience in scaffolding principles, including erecting and dismantling structures for construction projects.
Qualifications Apprentices Will Gain:
England
CISRS Part 1a, 1b, Part 2a, 2b, 2c – Level 2
CISRS Foundation – Level 2
CISRS Scaffolders’ Registration Card
Scotland
Level 2 NVQS Diploma in Accessing and Rigging Occupations: Scaffolding
CISRS Scaffolders’ Registration Card
The Benefits of Hiring an Apprentice
Hiring an apprentice is a cost-effective way to expand and upskill your workforce while cultivating a dedicated team aligned to your business values. Apprentices bring energy, enthusiasm, and motivation, while helping you:
Develop the specific skills your business needs
Improve productivity and customer satisfaction
Build a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals
Start Your Apprenticeship Journey Today
Whether you’re new to apprenticeships or an experienced employer, NCC is here to support you every step of the way. Let’s build the future of the construction industry together.
Find out more and book online: www.citb.co.uk/national-construction-college/apprenticeship-courses/
Safety & Access, a leading provider of scaffolding and access training, has announced the appointment of John Hall as their new Scaffold Training Manager. With an impressive career spanning over 37 years in the scaffolding industry, John will oversee the company’s training operations in the UK and overseas.John’s journey in scaffolding began in 1987 through a youth training scheme. By age 22, he had achieved his Advanced Scaffold qualification, cementing his place as a skilled professional in the field. His hands-on experience includes working across sectors such as petrochemical sites, offshore installations, oil refineries, and landmark projects like the Millennium Dome (now The O2).Over the years, John has held various roles, from scaffolder to supervisor with SGB in Edinburgh and later as a contract manager at Power Group. His career also saw him managing operations at Yarmouth Power Station before transitioning into training at 43, where he found his passion for mentoring the next generation of scaffolders.John is proficient in delivering various CISRS courses, including COTS, Part 1, Part 2, Advanced, and Scaffold Inspection courses. He is also experienced in training proprietary systems such as Layher, Cuplock, and HAKI, alongside delivering CITB Site Safety Plus courses.Having previously led the Safety & Access training facility in Humberside, John’s return is being welcomed as a significant boost to the organisation. His leadership and expertise are expected to enhance the quality and reach of Safety & Access’s training programs both domestically and abroad.The team at Safety & Access has expressed their excitement at having John back, noting his dedication and extensive knowledge as key assets for their ongoing commitment to excellence in scaffolding training.
Barnsley-based IBN Scaffold Access Ltd has strengthened its position in the scaffolding industry by partnering with Layher UK, following a substantial investment in the company’s renowned Allround scaffolding system.
The decision marks a strategic step forward for IBN as it seeks to diversify its offerings and future-proof its operations.
The company’s Managing Director, David Brown, explained that the partnership was motivated by a desire to embrace system scaffolding while maintaining the flexibility to meet client needs.
“This investment allows us to expand our services and ensure we remain competitive as the industry evolves,” he said.
IBN’s decision to adopt the Layher Allround system followed a thorough evaluation of market options. According to Brown, previous plans to invest in system scaffolding had been put on hold due to a management buyout.
However, when the time came to revisit the strategy, Layher emerged as the clear choice.
“Layher’s commitment to their 4S values—Service, Support, Solutions, and Supply—really stood out,” he noted.
“They demonstrated these principles throughout our discussions and have exceeded our expectations.”
Benefits for Clients and Projects
The introduction of Layher Allround has already delivered significant advantages for IBN’s projects. The system’s efficiency has led to notable time savings on-site, while its versatility allows the company to meet a wide range of client requirements.
Layher’s ability to quickly source components, including shipping from Germany, has further enhanced IBN’s operational flexibility.
“The Layher brand is well-known and respected in the industry,” David added.“Our clients have confidence in the quality and innovation associated with the Allround system, which strengthens our service offering.”
A Strategic Vision for the Future
IBN’s investment is part of a broader strategy to stay at the forefront of the scaffolding industry. While the company remains committed to traditional tube and fitting scaffolds, it recognises the growing importance of system scaffolding.
The partnership with Layher includes a focus on training, with IBN’s operatives benefiting from access to state-of-the-art facilities at Layher UK’s HQ in Letchworth.
“Our team has been extremely impressed with the training provided by Layher UK, and we’re committed to ensuring all operatives are fully equipped to work with the system,” he said.
Strong Support from Layher UK
IBN’s proximity to Layher’s depot in Eggborough has proven to be a key asset, providing the company with direct access to resources and technical expertise.
Layher’s support extends from initial design stages to on-site assistance, ensuring smooth project execution.
“Layher’s technical knowledge, rigorous product testing, and in-house design capabilities played a major role in our decision to partner with them,” David explained.
“They’ve delivered on every promise, and we look forward to a prosperous partnership.”
Looking Ahead
IBN Scaffold Access Ltd is now eager to deploy the Layher Allround system on technical and complex projects, confident in the capabilities of both the system and its team.
With plans to continue investing in Layher products and training, the company is well-positioned to capitalise on future opportunities.
